Asia: Surveying the Competitive Landscape
Asian markets represent some of the biggest opportunities for U.S. manufacturing technology companies, yet also, arguably, the greatest competitive challenges. Of the 20 largest machine tool producers, 10 are incorporated in Asia. From the developed markets of Japan and Korea, the rise and maturation of Chinese manufacturing, and the emerging markets of Southeast Asia, the Asian manufacturing landscape is varied. Our panelists will discuss innovative approaches to succeeding in Asia markets and share their thoughts about lessons learned.

Building Your Sustainable Competitive Advantage in International Markets
The purpose of this panel session is to demonstrate the strategic value of technical standards and conformity assessment in international markets. Further, the session will focus on the importance of investing in and embracing technical standards as a means to develop innovative and market relevant technologies. Topics covered will include the state of the industry in advanced manufacturing standards and current and future standards development trends. The session will also examine case studies on the use of advanced manufacturing standards to reach global markets. Finally, panelists will discuss international best practices and explore how foreign competition is leveraging technical standards.

The European Union Framework Program for Research and Innovation, Horizon 2020, has earmarked nearly €80 billion of funding available over 7 years (2014 to 2020) to increase Europe’s competitiveness. A significant portion of that funding is being applied to Advanced Manufacturing, with the goal of increasing Europe’s manufacturing from 16% of GDP to 20% of GDP by 2020. Our panelists will discuss how U.S. companies can succeed in the competitive European marketplace, and what obstacles these companies must overcome to find success.

Digital Strategies for Advanced Manufacturers
Digital tools and resources help manufacturers increase their sales and brand awareness internationally. This interactive panel will highlight best practices for utilizing technology tools in everything from market analysis to customer acquisition.

Market Identification and Penetration
Panel explores critical questions companies pose when searching and identifying new markets and practical, relevant arguments with supporting facts for penetrating interesting markets, a business panel’s view on “what works” and “what does not work” in selecting and entering markets.